Distracted driving continues to be a common cause of accidents in Tulsa and throughout Oklahoma. Thousands of people die in distracted driving accidents each year. In 2018, 2,841 people died in the United States in accidents caused by distracted drivers. In 2019, 8,646 distracted driving accidents caused thousands of injuries and 40 deaths in Oklahoma.
The consequences of distracted driving can cause lifelong pain and suffering for individuals and families. For the distracted driver, the consequences of an accident can also be costly. Oklahoma personal injury laws hold distracted drivers financially liable for damages caused by accidents.
Distractions Take Many Forms
Texting while driving is a common cause of distracted driving. However, cell phone use, even hands-free cell phone use, can also be a huge distraction. A driver paying attention to a conversation may not notice a child darting into the road or a car slowing down to turn.
Any distraction that causes the driver to shift focus from driving is a potentially deadly distraction. Examples of distractions include:
- Using a cell phone or other electronic device while driving
- Eating and drinking
- Grooming
- Changing clothing
- Reaching for objects
- Interacting with passengers
- Caring for children or pets
- Daydreaming
- Paying attention to objects outside of the vehicle
Taking your eyes off the road even for a second could result in a crash. You could cause an accident that results in traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, or a wrongful death.
Filing a Distracted Driving Accident Claim
If another driver causes an accident, the steps you take after the crash could significantly impact your accident claim. Steps to take after a distracted driving accident include:
- Call 911 to report the crash
- Ask eyewitnesses for their names and contact information
- If it is safe for you to do so, make a video of the accident scene with your cell phone or take pictures
- See a doctor immediately to document your accident injuries
- Do not discuss the accident with anyone other than the police officer and your personal injury lawyer
- Never admit fault for the cause of the crash
- Do not agree to provide a written or recorded statement for the insurance company
As soon as possible, contact a Tulsa distracted driving accident attorney to discuss your claim. Our lawyers have significant experience handling car accident cases. We analyze your case and provide an honest assessment free of charge.
Call for Your Free Consultation with a Tulsa Personal Injury Attorney
Your time to file a lawsuit against a distracted driver is limited by the Oklahoma statute of limitations. If you wait too long to talk with a lawyer, you may lose your right to hold a distracted driver responsible for the harm you suffered. Family members also have a deadline for filing wrongful death claims arising from a distracted driving accident.
Schedule free consultation with a Tulsa personal injury lawyer by calling The Law Office of Michael R. Green, PLLC, at (866) 944-4733.